Shadows Of The Past

As we gathered around the fire in the ski lodge, the warmth from the flames mirrored the newfound warmth of our reunion. The atmosphere was a blend of relief, nostalgia, and an unspoken understanding that the world we once knew had changed irreversibly.

Clementine: "Kenny, it's been so long. I never thought I'd see you again."

Kenny: "Clem, you've grown up so much. And Yhwach, good to see you too, my man."

Yhwach nodded in acknowledgment, a silent recognition of the shared experiences from the early days of the apocalypse.

Lee: "Kenny, it's been a hell of a journey. We've been looking out for each other."

Kenny: "I can see that. Glad to see you're still kicking, Lee."

The fire crackled, casting a warm glow on our faces, but the shadows of the past loomed in our eyes. The mention of Christa, Omid, and their baby created a palpable tension in the air.

Clementine: "Kenny, we've been searching for them, but... they're missing. We don't know where they are."

Kenny's expression shifted, a mixture of concern and sorrow etched on his face.

Kenny: "Missing? Christa and Omid? Damn it. We were hoping you'd know something."

Clementine shook her head, her eyes conveying the weight of uncertainty.

Clementine: "We've tried, Kenny. But the world out there is unforgiving. We can't be sure."

Kenny: Yeah. Yeah, I hear you... never thought I'd see any of you again. Tell you the truth, I should've never made it out of Savannah.

Kenny: For some reason I tried to save that fuckin' shitbird Ben. Then it turned into a damn cluster. Couldn't help the kid. But I got out.

Kenny: Long story short, I got lucky. Real lucky. Spent a long time alone after that. It, uh... And then I met Sarita, thank god. Gosh, it's great to have you back.

Sarita: You two catching up?

Kenny: Clem, this is my girl, Sarita. Ain't she beautiful?

Sarita: Nice to meet you, Clementine.

Kenny: Hey, Walt, is Dinner Ready?

Walter: Of course. I'll start dinner.

Walter heads to the kitchen and the rest of the group enters the living room.

Sarita: Carlos, right? Mind if I steal your daughter for a secret mission?

Carlos: Stay in sight, sweetie.

Luke: Can we do anything to help?

Kenny: Could use a hand outside. We got a lotta supplies we need to bring in before that storm hits.

Luke: Sure.

Kenny: Clem, why don't you help Walt with dinner?

Clementine enters the cafeteria, where Walter is cooking dinner in a pot on the stove.

Walter: Hey, Clementine. Settling in well enough?

Clementine: Yeah, thanks.

Walter: Excellent. Want to help me prepare a little dinner? So how do you know Kenny? He and Sarita have been a huge help. Matthew and I barely knew what to do around here the first week. But Kenny, well, he never slows down.

The room fell silent for a moment, the crackling fire providing the only soundtrack to our collective thoughts. The reunion, while filled with joy, was tempered by the harsh reality that loved ones could be lost in this unforgiving world without a trace.

Kenny: "Well, we'll keep an eye out. Maybe they're out there, surviving like the rest of us."

The acknowledgment hung in the air, a shared hope that, against all odds, Christa, Omid, and their child might still be out there somewhere.

In the flickering light of the fire, with the echoes of laughter and the murmur of conversations, the ski lodge became a haven, if only for a brief respite. We were survivors, connected by the threads of our past, navigating an uncertain future together.

Kenny: "So, what's your plan now, Lee?"

Lee glanced at Yhwach, before responding.

Lee: "We're on a constant lookout for a safe place. Somewhere we can fortify, gather supplies, and build a community. It's not easy, but we've been managing."

Kenny: "Sounds like a plan. If you ever need a hand or a place to rest, you're always welcome here."

Yhwach nodded appreciatively, acknowledging the unspoken bond that connected survivors in this ever-changing world.

Kenny smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting the hardships of the past, yet resilient in the face of adversity.

Kenny: "Clem's like family. We look out for each other. Always have."

Kenny: "Yhwach, I wanted to talk to you about something. Back in the day, when Lee and Clem found me, you were there too. We went through some tough times."

Yhwach nodded, recalling the early days of the apocalypse and the bonds formed in the crucible of survival.

Kenny: "I know things have changed, and we've all taken different paths. But I remember you saved my ass more than once. I owe you, man."

Yhwach: "We are a team, Kenny. In those dark days, we found strength in each other. No debts owed."

Kenny extended a hand, and Yhwach shook it firmly, a silent acknowledgment of the shared history that bound them together.

Kenny: "If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. We look out for our own."

Yhwach: Likewise, Kenny.

The evening continued with shared stories and laughter, a stark contrast to the harsh reality of the world outside. The bond between the two groups grew stronger as they exchanged tales of survival, loss, and the indomitable spirit that kept them moving forward.

As dinner preparations unfolded in the lodge's kitchen, Clementine found herself working alongside Walter. The comforting aroma of cooking filled the air, momentarily transporting them to a time when such simple tasks were taken for granted.

Walter: "So how do you know Kenny? He and Sarita have been a huge help. Matthew and I barely knew what to do around here the first week. But Kenny, well, he never slows down."

Clementine: "Kenny and Lee saved me back in Savannah. We've been through a lot together."

Walter nodded, his eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and understanding. The camaraderie within the group was evident, a shared understanding that in this world, relationships forged in adversity were the ones that held the most weight.

Walter: "It's good to see old friends reunited. We don't get many moments like this."

Clementine: "Yeah, it's... it's nice."

The warmth of the kitchen, both from the stove and the shared company, created a bubble of solace amidst the chaos outside. It was a brief respite, a chance to savor the present moment before the inevitable challenges of the next day.

Meanwhile, outside, Kenny, Luke, and Yhwach worked together to bring in supplies before an impending storm. The wind whispered through the trees, carrying with it a reminder that even moments of peace were fleeting in this unpredictable world.

Kenny: "We've got to secure everything before the storm hits. Can't afford to lose any supplies."

Yhwach: "Agreed. Storms can be unforgiving. We should make sure the group is prepared."

Luke: "Got it covered, Kenny. We'll get everything secured."

The three of them continued their work, the shared effort strengthening the bond between the two groups. The sky, painted in hues of orange and pink as the sun dipped below the horizon, served as a silent witness to the collaboration that defied the grim circumstances of their reality.

Back inside the lodge

Walter: Well everyone, dinner is served. C'mon, let's eat.

Walter called out causing everyone to walk over to the table.

Kenny: Right here Yhwach, Lee

Kenny called waving me over to his table. 

It looked like Luke was about to do the same but he stopped once Kenny beat him to it. He looked at me, waiting to see what I would do. 

Ultimately We chose to sit with Kenny while Clem went and sat with Sarah at Luke's table.

Kenny: So how'd you meet this group huh? Are you certain you can even trust them?

He asked. 

Yhwach Pov

As we gathered around the table, the warmth of the fire and the aroma of dinner created a semblance of normalcy in the midst of the apocalypse. The familiar faces of Kenny, Sarita, and new acquaintances like Walter and Matthew mingled with the memories of the past.

Kenny: "So how'd you meet this group, huh? Are you certain you can even trust them?"

I met Kenny's gaze, understanding the skepticism that often came with survival instincts.

Yhwach: "We encountered them during our journey. Trust is earned in this world, and so far, they've proven themselves."

Kenny gave a nod, acknowledging the wisdom in cautious alliances.

Kenny: "Good to know. We've had our fair share of people who turned out to be more trouble than they were worth."

The conversation flowed around the table as we shared a meal, stories exchanged in the flickering light. Sarita's laughter echoed in the background, a rare moment of joy in a world tainted by uncertainty.

Clementine and Sarah sat at the other table, their own conversation a mix of shared experiences and the unspoken bond that formed between survivors of a similar age. The innocence in Sarah's eyes contrasted with the harsh reality of the world, a reminder that even amidst the apocalypse, there were moments of fleeting normalcy.

As dinner progressed, Kenny leaned in, his voice lowered.

Kenny: "Yhwach, Lee, I wanted to talk to you about something. It's about that station down the bridge."

His words carried a hint of concern, prompting my attention.

Yhwach: "What's on your mind, Kenny?"

Kenny: "Matthew mentioned a group staying up past the ski lodge. Said they're willing to help. But you know as well as I do, trusting strangers can be a double-edged sword."

He glanced around, ensuring no one was eavesdropping on our conversation.

Kenny: "I'm thinking we should check them out, see what they're really about. I don't want any surprises."

Yhwach: "Agreed. In this world, caution is our ally. We'll approach it carefully."

Kenny: It's a good thing yall and Clem are staying here. And what's with the dog?"

Lee: Clementine found him when we got separated from Christa and Omid. His name's Sam. Clem fed him some beans she found and he's been attached to her ever since."

Kenny: Alright then, I guess I can get use to a dog.

Clementine Pov:

As I walked over to sit next to Sarah, I watched Lee and Yhwach walk over to Kenny's table sitting down with him. I was glad that Kenny was back. He, Lee and Yhwach had always seemed to be really good friends. 

I sat across from Luke after I sat a bowl on the floor for Sam. Luke looked over at Kenny's table and then turned back to me.

Luke: So what's the deal with your friend here? 

Carlos sat down next to Nick jumping into the conversation. 

Carlos: Yes. We were just talking about this Kenny. what do you make of him, Clem?

Clementine: I trust Kenny. 

I replied looking at all of them like they were crazy.

Luke: With your life?

Luke questioned.

I rolled my eyes. 

Clementine: Yes.

I responded looking him in the eyes. 

He turned around looking at Kenny as he talked to Yhwach and Lee, before turning back to me.

Luke: Walter was telling me his family died.

Luke stated causing me to look up at him.

Sarah: That's horrible.

Sarah said sadly.

Luke: Thing like that can hit a guy pretty hard.

Luke said.

Alvin: He lost his whole family?

Alvin asked with a strange look on his face.

Clementine: Kenny did his best. He's doing his best, I'm sure.

I replied looking away hoping they would just drop the conversation.

Luke: I'm sure he did.

Luke sighed.

I looked at him shaking my head.

Clementine: It was really hard on everyone. So give Kenny a break. The last thing he needs is someone making him feel worse than he probably already does.

As Kenny, Yhwach, and Lee strolled over to the table and took their seats, Carlos and Sarah rose, vacating the table.

Kenny: Hey.

Kenny flashed a grin at Luke.

Luke nodded.

Luke: Hey.

He responded.

Kenny: Hope you enjoyed the food.

He said, attempting to initiate a conversation.

Yhwach: This is going awfully.

His remark went unnoticed by everyone.

Luke: Oh, it's... it's great. Thank you.

Luke stammered, clearly not fond of Kenny.

Kenny: Peaches and beans, Great for nutrition. Not too great on the way out though , I tell ya.

Kenny cackled.

I shook my head along with Lee and Luke. Once Kenny stopped laughing, he looked between Luke and Nick.

Kenny: So it's Luke...and Nick. Luke and Nick. You guys sure do look like a match.

He chuckled.

Lee: Kenny..

Lee sighed probably already knowing where this was going.

Nick: What's that supposed to mean?

Nick asked with a frown.

Kenny: I'm just sayin you look like good friends, that's all. 

Kenny said innocently.

Luke: So, what was your plan here? Hold out for the winter?

Luke changed the subject.

Kenny: Actually, we were thinkin' of movin on. Somewhere up north. You ever heard of a place called Wellington?

Kenny asked.

Luke: Wellington? What's that?

Luke asked

Lee: Thats where we were headed when we got separated from Christa and Omid. 

Lee Said.

Yhwach Pov:

As the conversation unfolded, I observed the dynamics between the two groups. The tension in the air was palpable, a result of past experiences and the uncertainties that came with forming new alliances.

Kenny's mention of Wellington seemed to catch Luke off guard, and the name resonated with me as well. It was a destination filled with hope, a sanctuary that held the promise of safety.

Kenny: "Wellington? What's that?"

Luke questioned, his curiosity evident.

Kenny: "Actually, we were thinkin' of movin' on. Somewhere up north. You ever heard of a place called Wellington?"

The mention of Wellington brought a flicker of recognition to Luke's eyes, and the atmosphere at the table shifted. Lee interjected, connecting the dots from our shared past.

Lee: "That's where we were headed when we got separated from Christa and Omid."

The revelation hung in the air, a shared history that bound us together in our pursuit of a safe haven. The idea of Wellington sparked a glimmer of hope, a beacon in the darkness of the post-apocalyptic world.

Kenny: "Separated, huh? Well, we're all movin' in the same direction. We can join forces. Safety in numbers, right?"

Kenny's proposal carried a practical wisdom, and for a moment, it seemed like the possibility of a unified journey was within reach.

Luke, however, remained cautious, his gaze shifting between Kenny and the rest of us.

Luke: "Safety in numbers, sure. But we've been on the road for a long time. We might not be keen on bringing others along."

Kenny nodded, acknowledging the valid concerns.

Kenny: "Fair enough. You've been through a lot, I get it. But we've got good people here. We can watch each other's backs. Besides, maybe this Wellington place is the real deal. A chance for something better."

Walter: Hey, Clementine. Would you, uh, lend me a hand outside for a moment?

Clementine gets up and goes outside with Walter.

Lodge exterior

Clementine: Pov

Walter: I'm sorry about that. I used to be a teacher. And I remember what it's like to be caught in the middle of two cliques. I suspect they'll find common ground soon enough. It may take a little time, but that's just how these things work. Everything will be fine. Listen, relationships are like any machine. You don't throw them out when they break down. You get your hands dirty and you grease the wheels. What do you say? Will you help me work on them?

Clementine: Everything will not be fine. Do you really think everyone can just... get along?

Walter: They say the world is over, but I'll tell you a secret: it's not. People are more political now than they ever were before. In the end, we can't change the world. All we can do is continue to learn from each other; to empathize and use our heads. "All war is a symptom of man's failure as a thinking animal." Steinbeck. Have you read him? Well, we have plenty of time to catch you up on your reading. My partner Matthew is amassing quite the literature collection. I think you'll like him. In any case, the point is: as long as we have our wits about us, we can always make the right choice. Right?

Clementine: Right.

Walter: What's the matter, Clementine? Is there something you want to tell me? You can talk to me, Clem. There's almost nothing you could tell me that would surprise me. I can promise you that.

Clementine: I'm just worried about the people chasing us.

Walter: You're safe now. Don't worry. Matthew will be back soon and everything will be fine.

Kenny: Hey, kids. What are you two talkin' about?

Walter: Oh, politics.

Kenny: The hell?

Walter: Being from Florida, I would imagine you know all about politics, Kenny.

Kenny: Man, I know one advantage of living in the apocalypse is not dealin' with that shit no more. I was just gonna check the windows 'round back before this storm hits. Give us a hand?

Walter: Sure.

The group turns the corner and finds looking into their windows. Kenny takes a step forward, but Walter puts his hand on his shoulder to stop him.

Walter: Miss?

Bonnie is surprised to see them, and puts her hands up after noticing that Kenny is carrying a rifle.

Bonnie: Please. Do you have any food?

Walter: Are you okay?

Bonnie: I saw the house, and... I have a family. We're starving. We live down there.

Walter: Of course. Why don't you come in, miss...?

Bonnie: Bonnie.

Kenny: Walt, I don't know. You're just gonna let her in like that?

Walter: It's fine, Kenny.

Kenny: We don't know this girl.

Walter: Then we'll have to get to know her, right, Clem?

Kenny: Walt.

Walter: How much damage can this poor woman do?

Clementine: Check her for weapons.

Kenny: Yeah.

Bonnie will remember that.

Bonnie: Thank you, really, but that storm'll be on us soon and I gotta get back to my family.

Walter: I'll bring something out to you then.

Bonnie: You don't have to do that.

Walter: No, no, it's fine.

Bonnie: What about your people?

Walter: We've got plenty. You stay put. I'll be right back. (walks away)

Bonnie: I have a little girl like you. How old are you, sweetie?

Clementine: None of your business.

Bonnie: I'm sorry. I didn't mean nothin' by it, hon.

Walter returns and hands Bonnie a cardboard box.

Walter: Here you are, miss.

Bonnie: This is too much.

Walter: Don't mention it.

Bonnie: I don't know how to thank you.

Walter: Just help someone else down the line.

Bonnie: Thank you so much. I'll be goin' now.

Walter: You stay safe.

Bonnie: You too. (walks away)

Kenny: Clem, go on inside and get to bed. Walt and I gotta talk for a second.

Clementine goes inside.

Kenny shook his head with a disapproving look on his face.

Kenny: Clem, go on in inside and get to bed. Lee, Yhwach and I gotta have a talk with Walt for a second." 

He told me as he glared at Walter.

I nodded walking away and heading back into the lodge Leaving Kenny, Yhwach, Lee and Walter to talk. " 

Sarah: Hey Clem! Come up here!

Sarah waved me down from upstairs once I walked into the lodge. Sam ran over to me at the mention of my name.

I made my way up the stairs where the group stood talking.

Carlos: Hey, Clem. What did Walter want to talk about?" 

Carlos asked as I reached the top of the stairs.

I shrugged. 

Clementine: Politics... I guess."

I replied. 

Clementine: Then we saw a girl peaking through the windows. 

Rebecca: What? A girl? 

Rebecca questioned.

Clementine: She said her name was Bonnie. She's gone now tho.

I answered nodding.

Carlos: I knew this was going to happen. 

Carlos groaned as they all started arguing amongst each other. Suddenly in the middle of their arguing, we began to hear a loud noise. It sounded like something spinning around super fast, like a giant fan.

We all rushed out towards the sound which was coming from the front of the Lodge. We ran outside where the wind Turbine spinning out of control, caused by the high winds of the winter storm.

Kenny: Storm's got it spinnin' outta control. That sounds gonna draw walkers. We gotta shut it down, Now!" 

Kenny yelled out.

Carlos: Nick help me carry the guns.

Carlos instructed as he walked away.

Sarita: Guns??

Sarita questioned with wide eyes as she followed Kenny. I stood at the door while Sam stood next to me watching as Lee, Yhwach and the group ran towards the wind Turbine.

Suddenly the lights in the lodge went off causing me to jump looking around. Kenny ran over with Luke and went inside.

I bent down rubbing Sam's head. 

Clementine: It's gonna be alright Sam.

I assured him. 

Lee worked on the Wind Turbine and finally it shut off causing silence to fill the area around us. The only sound heard was the wind, untill Walkers began slowly emerging from the woods. 

I grabbed Sam's Collar pulling him inside the house where Kenny and Luke were coming out.

Clementine: Walkers are everywhere.

I exclaimed.

Luke: Stay inside with Sarah ,Alvin, and Rebecca. We will handle this

Luke said as he and Kenny ran back outside.

Rebecca: What's going on?

Rebecca asked as Sam and I walked up the stairs.

Clementine: The wind Turbine brought walkers. Their handling it tho. Everything will be fine.

I assured her.

Sarah: Where's my dad? I.. I need him.

Sarah whined.

Clementine: Sarah, I'm sorry, you might not want to hear this, but I'm your friend and I wouldn't be a friend if I didn't say anything. Those things out there? They don't care about how you feel. And there are living people who don't care either. You need to grow up and realize that this isn't the normal times. This is the apocalypse. Either you grow up and protect yourself or be killed. Your dad won't always be there to save you Sarah. It's time you realize that.

I explained.

Sarah: That's not true. My dad will always be here.

Sarah argued.

Naive.

Clementine: Sarah. Listen. There is never a guarantee that we will all live. What if your dad dies right now? You don't even know how to protect yourself.

I pointed out shaking my head.

Sarah: You're just a kid, I'm older than you.

Sarah said crossing her arms just like a child.

Clementine: But I bet if you put me and you against two walkers, I'll make it out alive and you would likely be eaten.

I shot back.

Sarah went silent looking down. What I was saying was finally dawning on her.

Clementine: Don't worry, I was the same way before Lee taught me. I can teach you, and maybe Lee and Yhwach can help. I'm not trying to make you feel bad. I promise.

I said to her. 

Suddenly we started hearing loud gunshots, louder than the guns we had. Some sounded Automatic. I got up looking over the ledge to see people coming out of the woods killing the walkers.

Alvin, Rebecca, Sarah, And I went down the stairs to get a better look. My heart dropped as I watched Carver walking towards the group with Bonnie next to him and more people behind him. 

He walked up to Carlos, saying something when Carlos decided to spit on him. Carver wiped his face before swinging hitting Carlos in the face causing Sarah to jump up, I trief to grab her but she was quick on her feet as she rushed outside.

She ran to Carlos throwing herself into his arms. Carver turned towards the lodge and pointed causing everyone to come towards the building.

Without hesitation, Alvin, Rebecca and I rushed upstairs as they came in, careful so that no one would see us.

Man: Man, how the fuck we gonna cover these guys and look for them too?

One of Carvers men complained as they lead the group inside.

Bonnie: Johnny, just cover that window.

Bonnie instructed with a sigh. As Alvin, Rebecca and I crept around to ledge. I peeked over it seeing Carver watching as his group sat my group down with guns aimed at them. 

I glanced around the room trying to find Lee but he wasn't with the others. Neither was Kenny, Luke, Matthew, Yhwach, or Pete. 

Carver walked over to Carlos snatching him up and dragging him to the middle of the room, where he punched him in the gut causing him to double over dropping to the ground. 

Carver: Listen, I'm only gonna ask you once. Where's Rebecca?

Carver questioned as Carlos sat on the ground clutching his stomach while Sarah cried out for him. 

Carlos: Sarah, Everything is gonna be oka- Ahhhhh"

Carlos screamed as Carver grabbed his hand snapping his fingers backwards.

Carver: Rebecca, Our baby deserves to be raised in a place of safety. I know your out there. And Alvin, Luke, And the girl. This is real simple. You want this over quick, You all play nice and show your faces.

He demanded. 

Sarah: Don't hurt my dad, Please!

Sarah pleaded through her tears.

Alvin: He'll kill him.

Alvin whispered.

Rebecca: No, Alvin.

Rebecca said sternly.

Alvin thought for a second before shaking his head.

Alvin: We gotta go down there.

He said.

Rebecca: I can't do that.

Rebecca refused shaking her head.

Alvin: Bec... The baby.... You need a doctor.

He pointed out.

Rebecca: No, where's Luke , Lee, Yhwach, and Kenny?

She questioned ignoring his statement.

Alvin: How the hell am I supposed to know?

Alvin argued.

Rebecca: Their still outside. They can help us.

She suggested. 

Clementine: We have to help Carlos!

I stated. 

Alvin: Only way to help him is to do what the man says!

Alvin whisper yelled.

Rebecca: What about Luke, Kenny, Yhwach, and Lee? 

Rebecca asked in a whiny voice.

Alvin: Look at those guns. We start shootin and people are gonna die, on both sides. 

Carlos let out another scream as Sarah cried out loud.

Rebecca: Clem and sneak out, Find Luke-

Rebecca started but Alvin interrupted her.

Alvin: What the hell is she gonna do?"

He questioned with a frown. 

Alvin: And you heard him, Carver knows she's with us.

He argued.

Sarah: Just stop! Don't hurt my dad! Please!

Sarah sobbed.

Alvin: We're going down there."

Alvin started with confidence.

Rebecca looked at him with a mixture of sadness and fear as she spoke. 

Rebecca: He'll kill you."

Carlos: Fuck you, Shoot him! Somebody just shoot hi-

Carlos yelled before Carver grabbed his hair, snatching his head back and placing the knife to his throat.

Rebecca: Clem, Go get help.

Rebecca instructed.

Alvin: He'll kill him . Bec!

Alvin cried out lowly.

Rebecca: He'll kill him anyway!

She argued.

Alvin: You don't know that.

Alvin sighed.

Carver: Say goodbye Carlos!"

Carver called out.

Carlos: Don't look sweetie. Don't look.

Carlos begged Sarah to look away.

Clementine: I'll find Luke, Yhwach, Lee and Kenny. Stay here. 

I whispered crawling towards the window and opening it before hopping out. Rounding the corner, I spotted Kenny and Lee not far away under a Gazebo.

Lee: Clem!

Lee called out once he saw me. Careful not to be seen, I crept past the windows running over to where they were.

Lee: You okay sweet pea?

Lee asked. 

Clementine: I'm okay, where's Yhwach and Luke?

Lee shrugged.

Kenny: He was.whining about somethin or other, so I told him to take a hike and asked Yhwach to supervise the kid.

Kenny spoke pointing his gun at the Lodge.

We watched as Alvin, and Rebecca walked down the stairs, Rebecca stopped in front of Carver as he ran his hand across her cheek.

Kenny: Looks like they got everyone. Who are these guys? Can we take em? 

Kenny asked.

Lee: No Kenny, If you start shooting, what's to stop him from shooting too?

Lee disagreed.

Clementine: But we have to try something. Plus Sam is still up there.

I said looking at Lee pleading for him to do something.

Kenny looked at me as we made eye contact, he nodded pointing his gun and taking the shot. The glass shattered and the man at the window dropped to the ground never getting up again.

Carver angrily walked over to Walter snatching him up. He placed the gun to Walters head and pulled the trigger.

Kenny: No, Walt!

Kenny shrieked aiming his gun again in anger.

Clementine: Where's Matthew??

I whispered looking over at Lee. He sighed.

Lee: Walkers... They got him and Pete after we turned the wind Turbine off.

He explained shaking his head.

Carver: That's for our men. Now , I didn't want want to do this, but you ain't leavin' me much choice. So here's what's gonna happen, I'm gonna march another one of your friends out here and I'm gonna put a bullet in the back of their head. Or you could give up now, Your choice.

Carver called as he hid behind a piller in the lodge.

Kenny pulled the trigger of his gun grazing the piller Carver was behind. Loading the gun, he let off another shot as Carver walked away from the piller an out of sight.

Kenny: Shit, Can't see em no more.

Kenny groaned.

Lee: Hey, Ken. Over there.

Lee pointed to another space we could see easier in. We ran towards it hiding behind it just in time to see Carver grabbing Alvin.

Rebecca: Bill No!! Tell him to stop! Kenny stop!!

Rebecca cried out as Carver dragged Alvin away.

Clementine: Alvin!

I gasped. 

 Kenny sighed.

Kenny: Damn. Tough shot.

He shook his head.

Lee: Kenny, we need to do what he says. If you shoot again, he'll kill Alvin.

Lee tried reasoning with Kenny.

Kenny: Assuming I don't kill him first.

Kenny grumbled aiming his gun.

Clementine: We don't wanna take that risk, Kenny. Please.

I pleaded causing him to look at me, his eyes softening at the sight of me.

Kenny: Dammit. Alright! We're coming out!!

Kenny yelled with his eyes still on me.

Lee took my hand and we followed Kenny into the lodge where bonnie was waiting at the door with her gun aimed at us.

Bonnie: Let's go!

She demanded earning a glare from me. I knew we couldn't trust her.

Man: What're we gonna do with him? He's missing an arm, we can't tie em up. 

One of Carvers men pointed out once he seen Lee.

I latched onto Lee's arm glaring at Carver who just smiled.

Carver: I don't think he's gonna try anything. Call it hunch.

He chuckled motioning for them to sit us down.

Sam ran from upstairs joining me as I came in nudging his head under my arm. 

Bonnie: And the dog?

Bonnie questioned.

Carver looked at Sam and then at me and shook his head.

Carver: It's fine. As long as it doesn't get out of line.

He said As They zip tied my arms behind me but let me sit by Lee who placed his arm around me comfortingly.

Carver paced the floor in front of us, scanning the group. 

Carver: Where's Luke?

He asked getting no response. He chuckled.

Carver: Finally, cut and run, huh? Why am I not surprised? I warned you. I warned you not to follow him and look where he's led you."

He pressed on. Trying to make them feel bad for leaving.

He turned looking at Rebecca who was red in the face, and in tears from the fear of him almost killing Alvin. 

Carver: But you're safe now. We're going home. As a family.

He said.

Rebecca: Fuck you.

Rebecca managed to say through her tears.

Carver smirked crossing his arms.

Carver: Alright, round em up. We're headin ' back to camp.

He ordered before walking away. 

Bonnie and the other guy walked over pulling us up on our feets one by one. Bonnie reached to grab my arm but Lee beat her too it helping me up.

Clementine: Don't touch me.

I glared at her.

A look of hurt crossed her face, but she quickly shook it away aiming her gun at us, telling us to move, leading us out of the Lodge.

Clementine: (softly to Lee) We have to find Luke and Yhwach. They can't leave us at the mercy of this maniac.

Lee: I know, Clem. Keep your eyes open; we'll find them.

Clementine: (looking around) Luke! Yhwach! We need you! We can't face this alone.

The wind carried my words away, and there was no immediate response. The tension escalated as we approached the camp, and my mind raced with the uncertainty of what awaited us.

I kept my hope alive, praying that Luke and Yhwach would appear when we needed them the most.